Published on
September 29, 2025
For the third consecutive year, the Bahamas Travel and Sustainability Awards have been held by Caribbean Journal to recognize exceptional contributions in the tourism industry. The awards, which spotlight Bahamian stakeholders, industry partners, and leaders, acknowledge those making remarkable strides in categories such as lodging, gastronomy, and individual achievement. In 2025, the awards celebrated a range of categories that emphasize the growing commitment to sustainability within the Bahamian tourism sector.
Tourism Growth in The Bahamas
In 2024, The Bahamas set a new record by welcoming over 11.22 million international visitors. This significant influx of tourists further demonstrates the ongoing success of the country’s tourism industry. As the industry continues to thrive, the focus has increasingly shifted to maintaining sustainable practices that preserve the nation’s natural resources. The 2025 winners of the Bahamas Travel and Sustainability Awards embody the core values of responsible tourism and environmental stewardship, highlighting projects that benefit not only the visitors but also the local communities and the environment.
The Honourable I. Chester Cooper, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments & Aviation, emphasized the importance of sustainability for the long-term success of the country’s tourism sector. He shared that the continual growth of tourism is a reflection of the country’s natural beauty and warm hospitality, as well as the commitment to creating a resilient and responsible tourism industry. Cooper stressed that sustainability is essential to preserving The Bahamas as a world-class destination for generations to come. This message resonates through the awards, which celebrate the leaders and projects driving the nation toward a more sustainable future.
Recognizing Outstanding Achievements in the Bahamas
The 2025 Bahamas Travel and Sustainability Awards, voted on by nearly 50,000 visitors, industry professionals, and local Bahamians, honor a wide range of categories. These awards serve to highlight the achievements of those who contribute to making The Bahamas an extraordinary destination. The list of winners reflects the nation’s dedication to eco-consciousness, sustainability, and hospitality excellence. The following are the standout winners:
- Destination of the Year: Nassau Paradise Island
- Best Beach in The Bahamas: Pink Sand Beach, Harbour Island
- Best Luxury Resort in The Bahamas: The Cove at Atlantis Paradise Island
- Best Boutique Hotel in The Bahamas: Graycliff Hotel
- Best Restaurant in The Bahamas: Graycliff Restaurant
- Best All-Inclusive Resort in The Bahamas: Sandals Royal Bahamian
- Sustainable Hotel of the Year: Atlantis Paradise Island
- Sustainable Destination of the Year: Exuma
- Best Airline in The Bahamas: Bahamasair
- Best Marina in The Bahamas: Valentines, Harbour Island
- Best Cruise Line in The Bahamas: Royal Caribbean Cruise Line
- Best People to People Host/Hostess: Katherina and Victor Cooper – Exuma
- Best Bar in The Bahamas: Dilly Club, Paradise Island
- Best Experience/Attraction in The Bahamas: Boating in Exuma
- Community Tourism Award: Nassau Straw Market
- Environmental Conservation Award: Coral Vita, Grand Bahama
- Best Taxi Driver in The Bahamas: Cheryl Cambridge, Nassau
- Best Chef in The Bahamas: Jamal Small
- Bahamas Hotel Executive of the Year: Audrey Oswell, Atlantis Paradise Island
- Sustainable Tourism Leadership Award: Lakeshia Anderson Rolle
- Best Fishing Lodge in The Bahamas: Bimini Big Game Club
- Best Bartender in The Bahamas: Marv Cunningham
- Best Conch Salad in The Bahamas: Goldie’s Conch House, Nassau
- Best Cocktail in The Bahamas: Bahama Mama
Nassau Paradise Island, Pink Sand Beach, and Harbour Island stand out as destinations recognized for their natural beauty, while Atlantis Paradise Island, Graycliff Hotel, and Sandals Royal Bahamian remain top examples of luxury and service in the region.
Culinary Excellence in The Bahamas
The Bahamas is celebrated for its vibrant culinary scene, and the Best Restaurant in The Bahamas award was given to Graycliff Restaurant, a fine-dining establishment that has become a beloved staple for both locals and visitors alike. Meanwhile, Goldie’s Conch House, Nassau was awarded the Best Conch Salad in The Bahamas, recognizing its exceptional seafood dishes that showcase the island’s culinary heritage.
Other notable categories included the Best All-Inclusive Resort in The Bahamas, which was awarded to Sandals Royal Bahamian, known for its all-inclusive packages and excellent service. The Best Cocktail in The Bahamas was awarded to the iconic Bahama Mama, a drink that has become synonymous with the Bahamian experience.
Recognizing Sustainable Hospitality
Sustainability is at the heart of the awards, and special recognition was given to businesses and individuals excelling in eco-friendly initiatives. Atlantis Paradise Island received the prestigious title of Sustainable Hotel of the Year, acknowledging its efforts to adopt green practices that minimize its environmental impact while enhancing the guest experience. Exuma was named Sustainable Destination of the Year, an honor given to this region for its dedication to protecting its natural ecosystems and promoting responsible tourism.
Environmental conservation efforts were also celebrated, with Coral Vita, Grand Bahama receiving the Environmental Conservation Award for its groundbreaking work in coral reef restoration. The focus on preserving and revitalizing marine life is a critical aspect of the sustainable tourism strategy in The Bahamas.
Honoring Local Heroes
The Bahamas Travel and Sustainability Awards also acknowledged outstanding individuals for their contributions to the tourism sector. Katherina and Victor Cooper, recognized as the Best People to People Host/Hostess, were celebrated for their warm hospitality and personalized service in Exuma. The Best Taxi Driver in The Bahamas award went to Cheryl Cambridge, Nassau, highlighting the important role of local transportation in providing tourists with an authentic Bahamian experience.
Additionally, Jamal Small was named Best Chef in The Bahamas, and Marv Cunningham was recognized as the Best Bartender in The Bahamas. Both individuals are celebrated for their culinary talents and commitment to elevating the local food and beverage scene.
Leadership in Sustainable Tourism
The awards also highlight leadership in the field of sustainable tourism. Lakeshia Anderson Rolle received the Sustainable Tourism Leadership Award, a recognition of her dedication to advancing sustainable practices within the tourism industry. In the field of hospitality management, Audrey Oswell, Atlantis Paradise Island, was named Bahamas Hotel Executive of the Year for her leadership in fostering a culture of sustainability and excellence.
A Commitment to a Sustainable Future
The Bahamas continues to be a leader in the Caribbean when it comes to sustainable tourism, and the winners of the 2025 Bahamas Travel and Sustainability Awards reflect the commitment of individuals, organizations, and destinations to ensuring a bright and sustainable future for tourism in The Bahamas.
Latia Duncombe, Director General of the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation, expressed her admiration for the vision and dedication of the awardees. She emphasized that their innovative efforts contribute to preserving the natural environment, enriching local communities, and enhancing the tourism experience for millions of visitors. With the success of the 2025 awards, The Bahamas is poised to continue setting the standard for sustainable tourism in the region.
[Image Credit: The Island of The Bahamas]
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